Process
1. Choose a Listing Agent
A listing agent will represent seller and have a fiduciary responsible for looking out for seller’s best interests.
Interview agents and ask questions about the listing agreement, including the length of time the property will be listed.
2. Find Out How Much the Property Is Worth
Price the property in line with sold properties identified in a comparative market analysis. A seller's biggest mistake is to overprice a property.
Consider whether the market is hot, cold or neutral, and price according to the market temperature.
3. Get Property Ready for Sale
Prepare the property for sale by cleaning, decluttering and improving curb appeal.
Hire a professional stager to stage the property, or ask listing agent for advice.
Make repairs before selling as need. Consult with listing agent.
Protect seller’s privacy while the property is on the market.
4. Prepare Seller Disclosures
If seller is aware of material facts, disclose them.
If seller belong to a home owner association, additional documentation will be required.
5. Market the Property
Identify the sizzling selling points and choose advertising words to sell.
Take quality photographs.
Approve listing agent's marketing plan.
6. Show the Property
Seller will get more showings if seller let agents use a lockbox.
Generally, the property will show better if seller sell in spring than sell in winter. Selling during the holidays could likely result in a lower sales price.
Often seller only has one chance -- and sometimes only 30 seconds -- to make a good first impression.
Prepare for an open house and use the approach sparingly.
Ask for buyer feedback so seller can adjust listing price, condition or marketing strategies accordingly.
7. Offers and Negotiate
Make certain that buyers use the right form for writing a purchase offer.
Even if seller receive a lowball offer, negotiate by issuing a counter offer. Don't ignore offers.
Consider making a counter offer contingent on buying a property, if market conditions warrant.
8. Cooperate with Property Inspection
Get ready for the property inspectors.
Prepare the attic and basement for inspection, too. Move stuff away from the walls in the garage.
Also, prepare for the final walk-through inspection which takes place a few days before, or the morning of, closing.
9. Negotiate Request for Repair
Sellers do not have to accept buyer's request for repair; however, buyers can also cancel the contract.
Seller might receive a copy of the property inspection report if the buyers request repairs.
If seller does not choose to make repairs, consider offering buyer a closing cost credit.
10. Close
Seller will sign title and escrow documents near or at closing. Bring a valid picture identification.
Closing attorney will notify seller and listing agent when it the deed is recorded.
Depending on buyer's possession rights specified in the contract, seller may be required to move on the day the property closes, prior or after.